BELLEAIR — Belleair's Planning and Zoning Board on Monday night unanimously recommended that town commissioners create a new zoning option that would let a developer build a mixed-use project on the Belleview Biltmore property.

The measure was proposed late last year to smooth the way for St. Petersburg developer Michael Cheezem, who has a contract to buy the property. He envisions demolishing the original hotel and building a small replica inn with a restaurant, retail and meeting space alongside condos and townhomes.

Current zoning allows only for single-family homes or a hotel.

Zoning board members debated the new measure for 2 1/2 hours Monday. They asked town staff for several tweaks, such as requiring that shops only be accessed from inside the inn to discourage excessive traffic.

The Belleair Town Commission will consider adding the mixed-use option to city code during public hearings set for 6:30 p.m. May 20 and June 17.